Well here it is!
Situated near Naples, Pompeii is the city infamous for being buried by volcanic ash after the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79AD.
Naturally most of this city is in ruins, but the amount of things that have been preserved is astonishing! Thanks to the volcanic ash that destroyed this city, we can also peel back the centuries and see how these people lived, how they decorated their homes and public spaces.
Undoubtedly a lot of modern preservation and repair has gone into what remains of Pompeii. When I went there (six years ago), excavations and repair work was still being carried out! Taking into account that this city was rediscovered in the 18th century, the sheer size and complexity of this work becomes more apparent!
Whilst this was another organised trip, the sheer number of people milling around on that day meant we were limited in what we were able to see.
However, we saw a number of preserved houses, the ruins of the public baths, and the amphitheatre.
Of course, there were poignant moments of the trip, too. Plaster casts of excavated bodies can be found in situ. Due to the volcanic ash that layered upon the victims of the eruption, even details such as the folds of their clothing have been preserved for eternity.
Amidst the history and beauty these forms bring reality to the horror of the ever-present, looming shape of Mount Vesuvius.
This is such a tragic place to be so lovely. It must be quite an experience to see in person.
ReplyDeleteLisa